University of Venda Vacancies

To apply, click on the link at the end of the posts and all the best with your applications.

HEAD: CONTRACTS MANAGEMENT

Job Title
HEAD: CONTRACTS MANAGEMENT
Post Level
Grade 6
Job Type
Support – Univen Funded
Closing Date
10/10/2025

Job Requirements
A relevant Honours degree in Law or a four-year professional Law qualification (LLB).
A minimum of seven years of relevant experience.
Comprehensive knowledge of Contract Management and Procurement Legislation, particularly as it applies to higher education institutions.

Duties:

• Oversee the negotiation, drafting, and monitoring of robust contracts to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Provide and manage both formal and informal legal opinions on matters related to contracts.
• Maintain and manage the contract database for all institutional agreements.
• Offer legal support to the Bid Specification Committee and Bid Evaluation Committee.
• Perform administrative functions within the department as required.

Click here to apply

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Department

University of Venda -> Vice Chancellor and Principal -> Chief Financial Office -> Finance

Job Title

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (RF: B780)

Post Level

Grade 3

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

17/10/2025

Job Requirements

Chief Financial Officer (P3) Ref: B780 (Five-year fixed term performance contract renewable for a further term subject to satisfactory performance).

This is a re-advertisement. Candidates who previously applied for this position are encouraged to reapply.

Purpose of position

To provide effective professional leadership and ensure the establishment and implementation of sound financial management, accounting, supply chain, internal control systems, and compliance with relevant legislative requirements, thereby significantly impacting the university’s financial health and aligning with its strategic goals. In pursuit of the university’s transformation objectives, preference will be given to female candidates.

The Chief Financial Officer, a pivotal role in our institution, reports to the Vice Chancellor & Principal and is accountable for the financial sustainability of the university and managing the University’s financial affairs. The CFO is an integral part of the Executive Management Committee.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and inspire the finance team, ensuring alignment with the university’s strategic direction.
• Create positive stakeholder relationships.
• Contribute to the development of strategic and annual performance plans, including coordinating, analysing, and advising.
• Compile and submit financial statements, management accounts, and compliance reports to the Executive Management Committee and the Council.
• Review and manage the finalisation of the annual financial statements.
• Manage the University budgeting process in line with the strategic priorities.
• Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and systems, including payroll, debtors, supply chain, treasury, and financial aid.
• Establish, implement, and monitor financial management systems.
• Ensure the effective, efficient, economical, and transparent use of financial and other resources.
• Ensure compliance with supply chain management prescripts and strengthen controls.
• Serve as the primary contact for external auditors and coordinate audit activities.
• Continuously improve financial management processes, ensuring sound governance and compliance.
• As the senior finance business partner, the CFO advises the executive and the rest of the University’s stakeholders on financial matters.
• Create a high-performance culture through continuous development and training.

Minimum Requirements

• NQF 8 Qualification in Accounting/Finance or equivalent.
• Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), Certified Chartered Accountant (ACCA), or Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualifications.
• Minimum 10 years experience in a finance environment with 5 years at the Senior Management level in finance.
• Practical IFRS and group reporting experience.
• Senior Management role including staff supervision, budgeting, and management responsibility.

Additional Requirements

• Previous experience as a CFO or in a senior financial leadership role within the higher education sector or a large organisation would be an advantage.
• A blend of technical expertise and strategic vision, with an appetite for hands-on management when needed.
• A Master’s degree would be an advantage.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes)

• Commercial Acumen.
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Proven track record in financial management at a senior level.
• Ability to implement internal systems of controls to ensure sound financial

Management.

• Ability to communicate effectively with all Stakeholders, Management, Executive, Council, etc.
• Budgeting and planning skills.

• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to write financial reports and produce supporting documentation.
• Team builder with interpersonal skills.
• Strategic acumen.
• Change management skills.
• Well-organised and efficient.
• Honesty and a high level of integrity.
• Professional written and oral communication skills.
• Strategic thinking, planning, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to collaborate with senior management to organise, plan, and achieve University financial goals.
• Advanced proficiency in financial software and Excel.

Click here to apply

Legal Officer (LITIGATION)

Job Title

Legal Officer (LITIGATION)

Post Level

Grade 7

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

10/10/2025

Job Requirements

• A relevant Honours degree or a four-year professional Law qualification (LLB).
• A minimum of five years of relevant experience.
• Thorough understanding of quasi-judicial processes and the regulatory framework governing higher education institutions.

Duties:

• Handle litigation matters on behalf of the University and coordinate with external legal practitioners.
• Provide both formal and informal legal opinions across various institutional matters.
• Ensure the University’s compliance with legal frameworks, internal policies, and regulatory instruments.
• Support and oversee procurement processes within the University.
• Contribute to corporate governance and prepare relevant institutional reports.
• Carry out administrative functions within the legal Department.

Click here to apply

DEPUTY REGISTRAR GOVERNANCE

Job Title

DEPUTY REGISTRAR GOVERNANCE

Post Level

Grade 5

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

10/10/2025

Job Requirements

A Master’s degree in Governance, Law, or a related field.

Registration with a relevant professional body, where applicable.

A minimum of eight (8) years of managerial experience in the higher education sector, with a strong focus on governance, compliance, and institutional leadership.

Proven expertise in policy development, regulatory compliance, and governance frameworks.

Exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and communication skills.

Duties:

Strategic Direction & Alignment

Provide strategic leadership in governance matters, ensuring alignment with institutional goals, regulatory frameworks, and national higher education policies.

Conceptualisation, Leadership & Execution

Lead the development and execution of governance initiatives, policies, and systems that promote institutional integrity, accountability, and transparency.

Forecasting, Budgeting & Financial Management

Oversee budgeting and resource planning for governance-related functions, ensuring efficient financial management and sustainability.

People Management

Lead and manage governance teams, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous professional development.

Governance & Reporting

Ensure effective governance structures and reporting mechanisms are in place, including compliance with statutory requirements and institutional policies. Prepare and present governance reports to the relevant stakeholders and committees.

Click here to apply

Manager: Management Accountant 

Job Title

Manager: Management Accountant B349

Post Level

Grade 6

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

10/10/2025

Job Requirements

About the Role

The University of Venda is seeking to appoint a dynamic and experienced professional to the role of Manager: Management Accountant. This Deputy Director-level role will lead the University’s budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and business partnering functions, ensuring financial sustainability and strategic alignment.

Requirements

• Qualification: BCom Honours in Accounting or Management Accounting.
• Professional Membership: CIMA, SAICA, SAIPA or ACCA.
• Experience: At least 7 years’ related experience in management accounting, of which 5 years must be in a management role with proven team leadership.
• Sector Knowledge: Higher Education financial management experience is essential.

Duties

• Coordinate the University’s Annual budgeting, forecasting and scenario planning and analysis processes, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and compliance with relevant policies and regulations.
• Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of the Finance Business Partnering (FBP) model across faculties and divisions.
• Deliver insightful financial reports that support evidence-based decision-making by Executive Management, Council, and committees.
• Supports the university’s financial sustainability and governance by enabling informed decision-making and promoting accountability across departments and faculties.
• Drive cost allocation models, cost management initiatives, and benchmarking for efficiency improvements.
• Ensure compliance with DHET, National Treasury, Council policies, and external funder requirements.

• Support University’s strategic decision-making with cost analysis and financial modelling for strategic initiatives
• Support internal and external audits, including education sector audits
• Manage, mentor, and develop the FP&A team, fostering a culture of service excellence, accountability, and professional growth.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Leadership – Inspire accountability and safety culture across all levels.
• Crisis Management – Remain calm, decisive, and proactive in emergencies.
• Stakeholder Influence – Build trust and collaboration across academic and operational units.
• Change Management – Drive behavioural change through policy and education.
• Ethical Judgment – Maintain transparency, integrity, and confidentiality at all times.

Skills

• Advanced financial planning, analysis, and cost management expertise.
• Strong digital and analytical skills, including Excel, BI tools (e.g., Power BI), and financial modelling.
• Ability to translate financial insights for non-financial stakeholders.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and change leadership capabilities.

Key Interfaces

• Internal: CFO, Director: Financial Management & Reporting, EMC and SMC.
• External: DHET, National Treasury, external auditors, funders, research councils, banks, and other regulatory bodies.

Why Join Us?

This role offers the opportunity to play a strategic part in advancing the University’s financial sustainability and academic mission. It is a succession pipeline role, with exposure to senior governance structures and strategic decision-making at the highest level.

Click here to apply

HUMAN RESOURCES BUSINESS PARTNER

Job Title

HUMAN RESOURCES BUSINESS PARTNER

Post Level

Grade 8

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

10/10/2025

Job Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Psychology, or a related field.
• At least four years of relevant experience in a Human Resources role.
• Strong technical knowledge and practical experience in:
  • Strategic HR Management
  • Strategic HR Delivery  
  • Talent management
  • Employee relations
  • Remuneration and benefits
  • Organizational development
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability in advocacy, facilitation, and mediation.
• Applied knowledge of relevant legislation, including:
  • Immigration Act
  • Basic Conditions of Employment Act
  • Employment Equity Act
  • Skills Development Act
  • Labour Relations Act
  • Other applicable HR-related laws
• Proficiency in computer applications and HR systems, including data capturing, extraction, and analysis of transactional data.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the implementation of key HR functions across the full employee life cycle, including:
  • Talent Management & Succession Planning
  • Training & Development
  • Organisational Development & Design
  • Performance management
  • Employee Relations and wellness
  • Workforce Planning
  • Reward and recognition
  • HR Administration
• Align HR processes and objectives with the University of Venda’s strategic goals.
• Partner strategically with university departments to implement HR interventions that support institutional success.
• Promote a high-performance culture through coaching, continuous improvement, and capability building.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders across all levels of the institution.
• Identify workforce challenges and implement appropriate interventions.
• Contribute to performance improvement across portfolio areas.
• Collaborate with HR centres of expertise to enhance service delivery.
• Support change management initiatives.
• Administer an accurate and efficient payroll system.
• Identify and mitigate HR-related risks.
• Strengthen governance and compliance with HR policies.
• Foster collaborative relationships to ensure delivery on service level agreements.

Click here to apply

FOOD SERVICE MANAGER

Job Title

FOOD SERVICE MANAGER

Post Level

Grade 8

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

10/10/2025

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Hospitality Management/Food Service Management/Dietetics/Nutrition.
• At least 4 years of managing food and beverage operations.
• Food service management professional (FMP) accreditation will be an added advantage, but not compulsory.
• A driver’s license is a requirement.

Skills and competencies

• Ability to manage in a diverse environment with a focus on client and guest services.
• Knowledge of the South African and industry-specific laws.
• Knowledge of food, food hygiene, and food preparation.
• Good business and commercial acumen.
• Strong leadership and motivating skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with guests and staff.
• The ability to think quickly, work in stressful circumstances, and stay calm in a crisis.
• Financial, budgeting, and stock-taking skills.
• Sound decision making and problem solving.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to forecast supplies as needed 
• High level of initiative.

Duties:

1. Management of canteen operations

• Draw up plans for the canteen operations for approval by the Executive Dean/ Faculty Manager.
• Manage the implementation of operational plans and ensure that they are achieved.
• Managing inventory of food supplies and other consumables, ordering necessary supplies as needed, and receiving deliveries.

2. Budgetary and cost control

• Draw up budgets for the canteen for presentation to management.
• Manage canteen budgets according to set principles of the budget control in conjunction with the canteen supervisors and chef
• Maintain high turnover in the canteen through sales control measures and ensure that sales records are kept up to date
• Manage stock procurement effectively, making sure that the canteen is adequately stocked all the time
• Managing inventory, stock, and asset register control.
• Payment of suppliers

3. Food Safety Compliance Management

• Develop a food safety management plan
• Perform bi-annual food safety audits
• Ensure quarterly deep cleaning of kitchens and food service areas
• Ensure that quarterly swabs are done in the storerooms, kitchen, and food service areas.
• Ensure that all kitchen processes or food service areas adhere to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles.
• Ensure compliance with local (municipal by-laws), national (regulation R638), and international standards regarding food safety.
• Ensure regular training of staff/students on food safety practices     

4.  Training of students

• Ensure that the canteen meets the training needs of the Department of Nutrition through maintaining consistent high standards of food and beverage service, food preparation, health, and hygiene.
• Align strategic objectives of the Department of Nutrition with food and beverage training and operations requirements.
• In collaboration with the Department of Nutrition, prepare a WIL timetable for Nutrition (and Hospitality) students in the operational area.

5. Administration and supervision of staff

• Prepare monthly schedules for all operational areas as well as leave administration for all staff.
• Hiring and managing training and development needs of staff in conjunction with HR/ Faculty Manager to ensure high performance within the canteen
• Ensure the implementation of performance management processes in the unit. 
• Supervise allocation of responsibilities to ensure optimum utilisation of human resources.

Click here to apply

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

Job Title

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY (P9) D090

Post Level

Grade 9

Job Type

Support – Univen Funded

Closing Date

10/10/2025

Job Requirements

Candidate should be in possession of a relevant Bachelor’s degree coupled with three years’ relevant experience or alternatively a three-year National Diploma plus four years’ relevant experience. She/he must have the ability to multitask, follow complex instructions as well as compile letters and memoranda. The candidate must also have relevant knowledge of software programs. Envisaged for appointment to this position is a proactive, respectful, methodical and a forward planning person with attention to detail. Ability to work in a high pressure environment with minimum supervision and a high level if integrity as well as excellent office administration.  

Duties:

Plan,manage, monitor and support the activities of the Director’s office and ensure the smooth running of the office.

Coordinate and maintain effective office procedures and efficient work-flows for the Director’s office.  

Verify accuracy, validity and reliability of information to ensure that decisions/ recommendations made by the Director are based on correct information. 

Responsible for drafting an office budget, placing orders against office funds and reporting on expenditures.

Provide administrative support for various meetings and committees.

Provide administrative support in the compilation of various reports for submission to committees as well as various stakeholders.

Manage the diary of the Director and the Department. 

Click here to apply

We wish you all the best with your applications